Thurso Tesco site slammed as ‘eyesore’
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TESCO should make "a definitive statement" over its plans for its proposed supermarket in Thurso.
That was said by prospective Labour candidate in the Landward Caithness ward David Baron who described the former mart site as being in "a deplorable state".
He said electors have raised the issue with him as he has gone round the doors and would like something done about it.
"It is disgraceful that Tesco with all its vast profits has been allowed to leave the site in this state. It is ironic that during this period the company has been investing heavily in overseas expansion," Mr Baron told the
Caithness Courier.
"I will be pushing for a definitive statement from Tesco about its plans for the site. If it is not forthcoming I will press for action to be taken by the company to tidy up the area. The first thing visitors coming to Thurso by train see when they arrive at the station is that dreadful site."
Mr Baron has vowed to make the matter a priority if elected. He said he was alarmed by the statement made recently by new Tesco boss Philip Clarke that large stores were "a less potent force" and the company did not need any more.
"A fraction of Philip Clarke’s annual salary would fund the removal of the present eyesore and the implementation of a landscaping scheme while Tesco resolve the long-term position.
"Another five years of neglect on this vital site cannot be tolerated and, if elected, I would see this as a major priority for the whole of Caithness," stated Mr Baron, a former teacher and Lancashire county councillor who lives in Halkirk.
"With three years’ experience as a chairman of a large planning authority in England I am well aware of the machinations of large commercial enterprises and the need for forceful leadership to ensure they meet their legal obligations."
The condition of the Tesco site has been criticised by local councillors and community councillors. The company has been accused of land-banking while the site has been described as "an eyesore".
The issue was raised again by Thurso community councillors at their meeting last Tuesday night.
Members have tried to take the matter up with the company on a number of occasions but have not had a response.
Colin Johnston described the situation as "unbelievable" and felt something should be done.
Thurso Highland councillor Donnie Mackay assured Mr Johnston that "everything that can be done is being done".
Community council chairman Don Smith said: "Everybody is doing their best but Tesco is not replying."
Bob Earnshaw, a former chairman, agreed. "It is a scandal but the company does not need to do anything," he said.
The Caithness Courier tried to get a comment from Tesco regarding the criticism about the Thurso site but no-one from the company responded to calls and voice-mail messages.
